BROOKLYN, N.Y., Aug. 31, 2015 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- A trial has been set for January 25, 2016 in a class action seeking billions of dollars in compensation from airlines alleged to have participated in a worldwide price-fixing conspiracy affecting shipments of air cargo. Hausfeld, a global claimants' law firm dedicated to handling complex litigation, serves as Co-Lead Counsel for the plaintiffs in the case, In re Air Cargo Shipping Services Antitrust Litigation, pending in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of New York, in Brooklyn.

Judge John Gleeson today heard oral argument from the few defendants that remain in the long-running case – Air China and Air China Cargo, Air India, Air New Zealand, and Polar Air Cargo (along with its parent, Atlas Air Worldwide Holdings (NASDAQ:AAWW)) – each of which contended that the Court should end the case now, rather than allow a trial to proceed.

Following arguments on the summary judgment motions, including from Hausfeld partners Brent W. Landau and Melinda R. Coolidge, the Court ruled for the plaintiffs and set the trial date.

Filed in 2006 on behalf of a class of direct purchasers of air cargo shipping services, the case alleges a multi-year conspiracy perpetrated by more than thirty airlines around the world. After reaching settlements of more than $1 billion with twenty-seven of these airlines, the plaintiffs recently won the right to proceed as a certified class against the remaining defendants.

According to Brent Landau, "The Court's ruling is a major milestone for the victims of this massive price-fixing conspiracy, and for private enforcement of the antitrust laws. We look forward to bringing this case before a jury and seeking further compensation for the class."

Hausfeld is a leading global law firm with offices in Brussels, London, Philadelphia, San Francisco, New York, and Washington, DC. The firm has a broad range of complex litigation expertise, particularly in antitrust/competition, financial services, sports and entertainment, environmental, mass torts, consumer protection, and human rights matters, often with an international dimension. Hausfeld aims to achieve the best possible results for clients through its practical and commercial approach, avoiding litigation where feasible, yet litigating robustly when necessary. Hausfeld's extensive experience with alternative and innovative fee models offers clients a diverse menu of engagement options and maximum flexibility in terms of managing their cost exposure.

For more information about the firm, including recent trial victories and landmark settlements, please visit: www.hausfeld.com.